Colgate University Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Abuse in Women’s Lacrosse Program
Former players of Colgate University’s women’s lacrosse team have filed a lawsuit claiming that the school failed to protect them from a coach who allegedly mistreated them, pressured them to play through injuries, and contributed to a toxic environment that led some to suicidal thoughts.
Cathy Taylor, who led the Colgate Raiders for five years, supposedly created a harmful atmosphere, with at least 20 players remaining on the team during her tenure. Amelia Cunningham, one of the plaintiffs, pointed out that three of those players appeared to have attempted suicide.
Cunningham, 23, a talented lacrosse player recruited with a significant athletic scholarship in 2019, stated that her time under Taylor greatly impacted her aspirations of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.
“Colgate was aware of the risks posed by Coach Taylor. Multiple students and parents voiced their concerns repeatedly,” Cunningham accused in the lawsuit filed in Manhattan Supreme Court.
According to court documents, Cunningham was compelled to participate in games while dealing with various injuries. She claimed that Taylor “mistreated student-athletes and regarded injuries as signs of weakness.”
When Cunningham hurt her wrist in her freshman year, it was said that Taylor advised her against surgery. Eventually, when she did get the procedure after her first year, it was too late to fully address her injuries.
Cunningham currently experiences pain and numbness in her wrist, and she mentioned that her dream of entering the medical field was hindered when she dropped an object, intensifying her injury.
While suffering from bronchitis, Taylor allegedly insisted that Cunningham continue playing without adequate recovery, which eventually led to more serious health issues, including Epstein-Barr virus and a respiratory condition requiring an inhaler.
The lawsuit indicates Cunningham was later diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and Trauma and Stressor Related Disorder, primarily linked to her experiences with the lacrosse program.
Over the years, Cunningham underwent five surgeries for various lacrosse-related injuries and even attempted suicide in 2022.
The complaint alleges that Colgate’s investigation into Taylor’s conduct was flawed, ultimately clearing her of any wrongdoing. Taylor resigned in 2024.
Cunningham’s attorney, Carolyn Guntert, emphasized that the university has a duty towards its student body, noting the profound impact this situation has had on Cunningham.
Notable figures associated with Colgate, such as director John Cassavetes and journalist Andy Rooney, have not commented on the ongoing lawsuit. Attempts to reach Taylor for her perspective were unsuccessful.
